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Poliomyelitis. Suspicion of this association arose in one case
during the year. The use of the suspended vaccine is preferred
as the injection is subcutaneous. Caution is necessary in
giving injections during seasonal prevalence of Poliomyelitis.
Recent trials of vaccines have shown that one prepared by
an American method gives an improved standard of protection.
Supplies of this vaccine are becoming available.
Smallpox. No case was notified during the year.
Prevention of Smallpox. Vaccination is voluntary and free
of charge under the National Health Service. The percentage of
babies under the age of one year vaccinated rose from 43.4 in
1950 to 55.8 in 1951. This increase in infant vaccination is
an encouraging sign of public appreciation of the value of
vaccination as a protective measure. The danger of the
introduction of Smallpox into this country makes it necessary
to sustain the basic immunity of the population. Parents should
ensure that babies are vaccinated between three and six months
of age, the safest period for vaccination.

Puerperal Pyrexia. Six cases were notified in 1951,
compared with five cases in 1950. The case rate was 6.42 per
1,000 total births, compared with 10.66 per 1,000 total births
for England and Wales.
Under the Puerperal Pyrexia Regulations 1951, the definition
of Puerperal Pyrexia has been revised as meaning "any
febrile condition occuring in a woman in whom a temperature of
100.4 Fahrenheit (38* Centigrade) or more has occurred within
fourteen days after childbirth or miscarriage.
The early notification of Puerperal Pyrexia is of primary
importance in the prevention of maternal mortality. Medical
practitioners should make the fullest use of the consultant,
bacteriological and hospital services and ensure the immediate
and effective isolation of any suspected case occurring in a
nursing home.
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